Nike is currently reviewing its relationship with Mexican soccer player Rafael Marquez in light of allegations by the US Department of the Treasury that Marquez acted as a front and held assets for the Raul Flores Hernandez drug organization in Mexico.
On August 9th, the US Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Rafael Marquez as an individual who has provided “support to the narcotics trafficking activities” of the Raul Flores Hernandez drug organization. As a direct result, Marquez is now prohibited from engaging in transactions with American citizens and any assets he may hold under United States jurisdiction are now frozen.
“We are shocked by these deeply disturbing allegations and are reviewing the situation to determine next steps,” a Nike spokesperson told FORBES via email.
A member of the US Department of the Treasury told FORBES they are unable to disclose information regarding frozen assets or property.
Marquez reportedly partnered with Spotify in early 2017 to create the “4ctitud Attitude” playlist, a reference to his jersey’s number. Spotify did not respond to questions regarding this reported partnership.
In a press conference later the same day the allegations were made public, Marquez categorically denied any drug ties. On August 10th, the Mexican Soccer Federation and Atlas FC issued statements wishing the player well and that they will respect the authority of the law.
Rafael Marquez, age 38, has long been heralded as one of the best defenders in Mexican soccer history. His soccer career began at Mexican club Atlas and eventually took him to Europe where he played for Ligue 1 team Monaco and later Spanish club FC Barcelona, where he became the first Mexican to win the coveted Champions League tournament. Marquez had a short stint at the New York Red Bulls from 2010 to 2012. Marquez returned to play for Atlas in late 2015.
